Business Hunters and Gatherers
Most people are scared to death of calling businesses cold for anticipated business. Salespeople of course have to do this as part of their job. Over time, the cold calling becomes easier. However when you are an entrepreneur or a job seeker wanting to find prospective companies, it sometimes becomes necessary to step up to the plate to make those calls.
I happen to find the process invigorating particularly when someone says, Yes! Those who enjoy the process are referred to as hunters. Those who prefer account management are the gatherers. Here are some tips for making it easier to make those dreaded calls:
1. Be of the mindset you are about to make a good friend
2. Smile when you speak and stand up to project added energy and friendlieness
3. Commit to at least 10 calls per day. By the 4th call, you communicate far better and momentum builds.
4. Track the number of calls versus positive response; it will improve over time
5. Try multiple parties at the same company; this is referred to as strategic selling – find the one that will say, Yes!
6. Keep your message simple to ensure the Yes!
This morning I was determined to find the right parties in a particular company. The phone number was hidden underneath a map on the internet but I found it. The phone menu was strange but allowed another choice so I clicked the button. A choice for an operator was not available nor was anything else I wanted on the second menu. Most would have given up. But at this point I pressed “O” for operator to see what would happen. Magically someone actually answered the phone. They transferred me to the right department.
The person I wanted was not available but left a message to reach another. I connected with the second party and she agreed to pass my information to employees on notice. I called back a second time to hear the last name, but this time the first person answered the phone. We spoke and she asked for the same information and promised to deliver to all the people she knows who received pink slips. I now have two employees working the company for me!
Give the tips a try and let me know how it goes or if you have any questions.
My event is An Evening of Inspiration ~ Be Inspired to Get HIRED!
The link provides details and registration. Please share with anyone you know who is seeking work.
For Additional Sales Strategies, Read:
Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results
and
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews.
